Triple (baseball) facts for kids
In baseball, a triple is an exciting play! It happens when a batter hits the ball and runs all the way to third base safely. They must reach third base without any errors from the other team. Triples are quite rare, making them a special moment in a game.
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What is a Triple in Baseball?
A triple is a type of hit where the batter runs past first and second base. They stop only when they reach third base. This all happens on one single play. It shows how fast and skilled a player is. The ball usually goes far into the outfield. This gives the runner enough time to sprint around the bases.
How a Triple Happens
For a triple to happen, several things usually come together. The batter needs to hit the ball very hard. Often, the ball goes into a gap between outfielders. This means no one can catch it quickly. The batter also needs to be a very fast runner. They must be able to run from home plate to third base before the fielders can get the ball back to the infield. Sometimes, the outfield has a large area, which also helps.
Why Triples are Special
Triples are less common than singles or doubles. They require a perfect mix of power, speed, and good placement of the hit. Because they are harder to get, triples are often celebrated by fans. They show off a player's athletic ability. A triple can also put a runner in a great scoring position. From third base, it is easy to score a run on the next hit or even a sacrifice fly.
Who Holds the Triple Record?
The player with the most triples in a single season is Chief Wilson. In 1912, he hit an amazing 36 triples. This record has stood for over a century. It is very unlikely to be broken today. Modern baseball fields and strategies make triples harder to achieve. Most teams now focus more on hitting home runs.
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Chief Wilson's record of 36 triples in a season is unlikely to ever be broken.
